New YoungMinds crisis messenger launched

The YoungMinds crisis messenger service provides free, 24/7 crisis support across the UK. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis and need support, you can text YM to 85258.

They aim to connect every texter to a trained volunteer in less than 5 minutes to provide support in a crisis. They will listen to you and help you think through how you’re feeling, and will aim to help you take the next steps towards feeling better.

The trained volunteer will introduce themselves, reflect on what you’ve said, and invite you to share how you’re feeling. You’ll text each other, only sharing what you feel comfortable with. By asking questions, listening to you and responding with support, they will help you think through your feelings until you both feel you are now in a calm, safe place. You might be signposted to other services, so that you can continue to get support.

You can text YoungMinds for free and anonymously – although if the volunteer believes you are at immediate risk of harm, they may share your details with people who can provide support.

Our staff have had a truly inspirational day visiting @RedBalloonLCG staff and students in Cambridge. What a fantastic provision, with dedicated staff and fabulous young people. Thank you for your hospitality and sharing your experience and great practice 😀😀😀

Or you could have speech and language therapists, specialist teachers, CAMHS and educational psychologists working with students and schools to get to the root cause of behaviour - identify early and out strategies in place 🙄 https://t.co/2NVn8lvoeC